Social Media Community Comment Policy

City of Beaufort Social Media Community Comment Policy

The City of Beaufort maintains official social media pages to provide timely, accurate information about City services, programs, projects, meetings, and public safety. These platforms are intended primarily as informational resources — not as public discussion forums or customer service channels.

While the City values public engagement, staff capacity does not allow for monitoring or responding to every public comment or question. Residents seeking clarification, assistance, or formal responses are encouraged to contact the City directly through Facebook Messenger, email, phone, or by speaking at public meetings.

🔎 Nature of Public Comments

• Comments posted by members of the public do not represent official City positions.
• Public comments may contain personal opinions, speculation, or misinformation.
• The City does not guarantee the accuracy of user-generated content and is not responsible for public comments.
• For official information, rely on City-issued posts, the City website, or direct communication with staff.

📋 Comment Guidelines

To maintain a respectful, safe, and constructive environment, comments must be:

✔ Respectful and civil — no obscene, profane, threatening, or abusive language
✔ Free of personal attacks or harassment
✔ Non-discriminatory — no targeting of individuals or groups based on protected status
✔ Non-commercial — no advertising, solicitations, or promotions
✔ Free of spam, repetitive posts, or disruptive content
✔ Free of confidential, private, or legally protected information (including personnel matters or ongoing investigations)

⚖️ Enforcement

Comments that violate this policy may be hidden or removed in accordance with applicable law. Users who repeatedly violate the policy may be restricted from commenting on City social media pages.

📝 Appeal Process

If a comment is hidden, removed, or a user is restricted/blocked, the user may appeal if they believe the action was made in error.

• Appeals must be submitted in writing via email to the City Manager or designee within five (5) business days of the action.
• The appeal must include:
– Name and contact information
– Description of the comment or action being appealed (link, screenshot, or date/time if available)
– Explanation of why the action does not violate the policy
– Any supporting context

• The City Manager or designee will review the appeal and issue a written decision within 10 business days of receipt.
• If reversed, the comment will be restored or restrictions lifted.
• Decisions are final.
• Users are encouraged to use alternative engagement avenues while an appeal is pending.

📄 Public Records Notice

All comments are retained in accordance with applicable records retention schedules and may be subject to disclosure under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

🤝 Alternative Ways to Engage

Residents are encouraged to contact the City through:

• Direct messages via official City social media accounts
• Email or phone contact with City departments or staff
• Public comment at City Council and board meetings (in person or via livestream)

These channels allow for accurate responses, appropriate follow-up, and respectful dialogue.

We encourage all residents to review the full Resolution 2026/02 and complete Social Media Community Comment Policy for detailed language and legal standards.

Resolution 2026/02